Red Bulls invite trio of trialists to training

HARRISON, N.J. — Just because the New York Red Bulls have remained quiet on the acquisition front does not mean they aren’t buyers for the coming summer transfer window.

As they did last season, New York are looking to strengthen their depth for the second half of the MLS season. In doing so, they have brought in a trio of trialists; French defender Damien Perrinelle, Brazilian midfielder Diego Souza Xavier and Scottish midfielder Martin Woods.

While the names may not be recognizable, each fills a need in Petke’s current roster. Perrinelle, 30, is a centerback last featured on Istres in Ligue 2 France.

“He is a very hard nosed defender,” Petke said. “Very good with the ball at his feet.”

Xavier, 21, is a stout attacking midfielder from Uniao Barbarense of the Brazilian second division. “With Diego, he comes in with a lot of credibility and a good reputation,” Petke said. He stands all of 5’6″, weighing in at roughly 150 pounds with a decent ability to control the ball and distribute.

“We will be playing on Tuesday our reserve game and those two will get significant minutes.”

The Red Bulls latest arrival is Martin Woods. The 28-year-old midfielder Scottish youth product started his career with Leeds United, and has been a fixture in the English football pyramid, suiting up for the likes of Sunderland, Doncaster Rovers, and most recently, Barnsley.

“He is more of a wing guy that can also come inside,” Petke described. “He has a good workrate and stature about himself and has played at some decent levels.”

Like Souza and Perrinelle, Woods will also be featured in reserve action on Tuesday.